UN Security Council to Vote on Hormuz Strait Shipping Resolution Amid Possible Chinese Veto

The United Nations Security Council is expected to vote today on a resolution aimed at restoring normal commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy transit route currently affected by tensions with Iran.

However, diplomats suggest that China may veto the proposal, a move that could effectively preserve Iran’s current position in the strait.

The situation escalated after Iran imposed restrictions on the vital shipping lane following airstrikes by the United States and Israel in late February. Since then, the strait has remained largely disrupted, affecting global energy transportation.

As the current president of the Security Council, Bahrain has circulated multiple draft resolutions in an effort to secure approval while addressing objections from China, Russia, and other countries.

According to the latest draft obtained by Reuters, the resolution emphasizes coordinated international efforts but does not authorize the use of force or military intervention.

Instead, it allows states using the strait to take necessary defensive measures to ensure maritime security. These measures may include escorting commercial vessels and preventing disruptions to international navigation.

Diplomats believe the revised and more limited resolution has a higher chance of passing, though approval is not guaranteed. At least nine votes are required for adoption, but any veto from the five permanent members—United Kingdom, China, France, Russia, and the United States—would block the measure.

An earlier draft by Bahrain had proposed authorizing “all necessary defensive measures” to protect commercial shipping. However, voting was postponed on Friday and Saturday after China warned that permitting the use of force could legitimize unilateral military action, escalate tensions, and lead to serious consequences.